Mazda North American Operations is recalling 190,102 units of the CX-7, produced from February 14, 2006, until May 9, 2012.
The action was taken after seven reports on lower ball joint separation were received. Mazda collected parts from the field, as part of the investigation during which it found that saltwater intruding into the ball joint fittings could cause corrosion.
In extreme cases, the ball joint can separate from the lower control arm, resulting in loss of steering control, which increases the risk of a crash.
As a priority, Mazda will first address all affected 2007-2008 and 2009-2011 vehicles registered in the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The rest of the SUVs will be recalled once parts become available.
The repair consists of replacing both front lower control arms, an operation that will be performed free of charge. Mazda will notify owners starting October 10.
PHOTO GALLERY
